Gaming Machine and Gaming System

ABSTRACT

An accumulate (increment) according to an amount of predetermined ratio of the number of bets made with respect to a game is repeated with respect to an award amount of a plurality of progressive jackpots, respectively. An award amount of a progressive jackpot which is the object of the increment increases towards an upper limit based on a predetermined sequence. More specifically, when the award amount of the progressive jackpot that is the object of increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of increment is set to the upper limit. Further, an award amount of a progressive jackpot with a following sequence number is set as the object of subsequent increment. If a progressive jackpot is won, an award amount of any one of a plurality of progressive jackpots is selected based on its sequence number. The award amount of the progressive jackpot that was the object of the selection is awarded.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is based upon and claims a priority from the U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/020474 filed on Jan. 11, 2008, the entire contents thereof are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

The disclosure relates to a gaming machine and a gaming system having a progressive jackpot.

2. Description of Related Art

A conventional gaming machine and gaming system include a machine/system in which a player can win a jackpot as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,837,728, U.S. Pat. No. 5,885,158, U.S. Pat. No. 7,056,215 or U.S. Pat. No. 7,108,603. The jackpot is a payout which is awarded an amount of several hundred times of one bet to the player.

There is a system in which an award amount to be paid with respect to the specific results of a game is increased by accumulating an amount of a predetermined ratio which is subtracted from one bet, as an example of the jackpot. This system is referred to as “progressive jackpot” here.

Accordingly, if a state in which specific game results are not produced continues in the gaming machine or gaming system, the award amount of the progressive jackpot keeps increasing, and an improvement in the operation rate can be expected. However, in a state in which the award amount of the progressive jackpot slightly exceeds an income tax deduction amount, a player is given the impression that the award amount of the progressive jackpot decreases due to payment of taxes, which resulted in a lower operation rate.

SUMMARY

Here, the disclosure has been made in light of the above, and it is an object of the disclosure to provide a gaming machine and a gaming system in which a progressive jackpot is constructed of a new system.

To achieve the object of the disclosure, there is provided a gaming machine comprising: a plurality of progressive jackpots, each having an award amount restricted to an upper limit and being assigned a sequence number; an operating unit for carrying out a bet operation with respect to a game; and a processor programmed to carry out operations of: (a) when an increment is repeated in accordance with a number of bets that are made through the operating unit until any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots reaches the upper limit, and the award amount of a progressive jackpot which is object of the increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, (a-1) setting the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is object of the increment to the upper limit; (a-2) in the event of an excessive amount that exceeds the upper limit, including the excessive amount in an award amount of a progressive jackpot with a following sequence number; (a-3) subjecting the award amount of the progressive jackpot with the following sequence number to a subsequent increment; further (b) if a player has won a progressive jackpot, (b-1) selecting any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots in accordance with the sequence number; and (b-2) awarding the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of selection to the player.

Furthermore, according to another aspect, there is provided a gaming machine comprising: a plurality of progressive jackpots, each having an award amount restricted to an upper limit and being assigned a sequence number; an operating unit for carrying out a bet operation with respect to a game; a setting device for setting a desired amount; and a processor programmed to carry out operations of: (a) when an increment is repeated in accordance with a number of bets that are made through the operating unit until any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots reaches the upper limit, and the award amount of a progressive jackpot which is object of the increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, (a-1) setting the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is object of the increment to the upper limit; (a-2) in the event of an excessive amount that exceeds the upper limit, including the excessive amount in an award amount of a progressive jackpot with a following sequence number; (a-3) subjecting the award amount of the progressive jackpot with the following sequence number to a subsequent increment; further (b) if a player has won a progressive jackpot, (b-1) selecting any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots in accordance with the sequence number; (b-2) awarding the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of selection to the player; further (a′) when an increment is repeated in accordance with a number of bets that are made through the operating unit until an award amount of a last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment reaches the upper limit, and the award amount of the last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, on the condition that at least one award amount of a progressive jackpot is reserved, excluding the award amount of the last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment, (a′-1) setting an award amount of a special progressive jackpot to which the upper limit restriction does not apply; (a′-2) handling all award amounts of the progressive jackpots as the award amount of the special progressive jackpot; (a′-3) subjecting the award amount of the special progressive jackpot to a subsequent increment; further (b′) in carrying out the operations at (a′), if a player has won a progressive jackpot, (b′-1) awarding the award amount of the special progressive jackpot to the player; and (c) in carrying out the operations at (a) or (a′), if the desired amount is set in the setting device, handling the desired amount as the upper limit.

Furthermore, according to another aspect, there is provided a gaming system comprising: a plurality of gaming machines, each having an operating unit for carrying out a bet operation with respect to a game; and a server that shares a plurality of progressive jackpots among the plurality of gaming machines, the plurality of progressive jackpots each having an award amount restricted to an upper limit and being assigned a sequence number, wherein the server is programmed to carry out the operations of: (a) when an increment is repeated in accordance with a number of bets that are made through the operating unit provided in each of the plurality of gaming machines until any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots reaches the upper limit, and the award amount of a progressive jackpot which is object of the increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, (a-1) setting the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of the increment to the upper limit; (a-2) in the event of an excessive amount that exceeds the upper limit, including the excessive amount in an award amount of a progressive jackpot with a following sequence number; (a-3) subjecting the award amount of the progressive jackpot with the following sequence number to a subsequent increment; further (b) if any one of the plurality of gaming machines has won a progressive jackpot, (b-1) selecting any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots in accordance with the sequence number; and (b-2) awarding the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of selection to the gaming machine that won.

Furthermore, according to another aspect, there is provided a gaming system comprising: a plurality of gaming machines, each having an operating unit for carrying out a bet operation with respect to a game; and a server that shares a plurality of progressive jackpots among the plurality of gaming machines, the plurality of progressive jackpots each having an award amount restricted to an upper limit and being assigned a sequence number, wherein the server comprises a setting device for setting a desired amount, and wherein the server is programmed to carry out the operations of: (a) when an increment is repeated in accordance with a number of bets that are made through the operating unit provided in each of the plurality of gaming machines until any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots reaches the upper limit, and the award amount of a progressive jackpot which is object of the increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, (a-1) setting the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of the increment to the upper limit; (a-2) in the event of an excessive amount that exceeds the upper limit, including the excessive amount in an award amount of a progressive jackpot with a following sequence number; (a-3) subjecting the award amount of the progressive jackpot with the following sequence number to a subsequent increment; further (b) if any one of the plurality of gaming machines has won a progressive jackpot, (b-1) selecting any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots in accordance with the sequence number; (b-2) awarding the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of selection to the gaming machine that won; further (a′) when an increment is repeated in accordance with a number of bets that are made through the operating unit provided in each one of the plurality of gaming machines until an award amount of a last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment reaches the upper limit, and the award amount of the last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, on the condition that at least one award amount of a progressive jackpot is reserved, excluding the award amount of the last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment, (a′-1) setting an award amount of a special progressive jackpot to which the upper limit restriction does not apply; (a′-2) handling all award amounts of the progressive jackpots as the award amount of the special progressive jackpot; (a′-3) subjecting the award amount of the special progressive jackpot to a subsequent increment; further (b′) in carrying out the operations at (a′), if any one of the plurality of gaming machines has won a progressive jackpot, (b′-1) awarding the award amount of the special progressive jackpot to the gaming machine that won; and (c) in carrying out the operations at (a) or (a′), if the desired amount is set in the setting device, handling the desired amount as the upper limit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a view showing the characteristics of a gaming system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a system block diagram showing the gaming system;

FIG. 3 is an external perspective view of a gaming machine;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the gaming machine;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a sub-control board;

FIG. 6 is a view showing one example of images to be displayed in a liquid crystal panel;

FIG. 7 is a view showing one example of images to be displayed in the liquid crystal panel;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a main control program;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a main game processing program;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a control program executed in the gaming machine and a game server;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the control program executed in the game server;

FIG. 12 is a flowchart of the control program executed in the game server;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the control program executed in the gaming machine;

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of the control program executed in the gaming machine; and

FIG. 15 is a flowchart of the control program executed in the game server.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [1. Gist of the Embodiment]

Next, a detailed description will be given on the present embodiment by referring to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a view showing the characteristics of a gaming system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

The gaming system of the present embodiment includes a plurality of gaming machines. Each one of the gaming machines shares three progressive jackpots. Each award amounts of these progressive jackpots increases until reaching an upper limit when an amount of a predetermined ratio of the number of bets with respect to a game played in each gaming machine accumulates.

Here, an accumulation in an award amount of a progressive jackpot by an amount of a predetermined ratio of the number of bets with respect to a game is hereby referred to as an “increment”. Accordingly, the increment is repeated with respect to each award amount of progressive jackpot until each award amount reaches the upper limit. The three progressive jackpots are each assigned a sequence number in the order in which they will become the object of increment, like in the first progressive jackpot, the second progressive jackpot and the third progressive jackpot. First, the increment is repeated with respect to the award amount of the first progressive jackpot until the award amount reaches the upper limit.

Accordingly, if the award amount of the first progressive jackpot is about to reach or become higher than an upper limit, the award amount of the first progressive jackpot is set to the upper limit. In the event the increment at this time includes an excessive amount that exceeds the upper limit, the excessive amount is included in the award amount of the second progressive jackpot. Thereafter, the increment is repeated with respect to the award amount of the second progressive jackpot until the award amount reaches the upper limit.

This also applies to subsequent jackpots. If the award amount of the second progressive jackpot is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, the award amount of the second progressive jackpot is set to the upper limit. In the event the increment at this time includes an excessive amount that exceeds the upper limit, this excessive amount is included in the award amount of the third progressive jackpot. Thereafter, the increment is repeated with respect to the award amount of the third progressive jackpot until the award amount reaches the upper limit.

The sequence numbers assigned to the three progressive jackpots are also used as to indicate the order in which the award amount of the progressive jackpot will be awarded. In other words, in the gaming system of the present embodiment, when a gaming machine wins a progressive jackpot, first, the award amount of the first progressive jackpot is awarded to that machine. Thereafter, when a gaming machine wins a progressive jackpot, the award amount of the second progressive jackpot is awarded to that gaming machine. Then, when a gaming machine wins a progressive jackpot, the award amount of the third progressive jackpot is awarded to that machine. Further, when a gaming machine wins a progressive jackpot, the award amount of the first progressive jackpot is awarded to that gaming machine. This also applies to any subsequent jackpots.

If the award amount of the progressive jackpot which became the object of this payout is also the object of increment, the payout processing may be executed in the following manner. In other words, subsequently, when a gaming machine wins the progressive jackpot on the condition that the object of increment is continued without shifting to the award amount of the progressive jackpot with the following sequence number, the award amount of the progressive jackpot which still is the object of increment is continuously awarded to that gaming machine.

The text now returns to the description of increment. When the increment is repeated with respect to the award amount of the third progressive jackpot, the award amount of the third progressive jackpot is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit. At this time, processing of subsequent increments differs depending on the number for the award amounts of the first and second progressive jackpots.

In other words, if the award amount of the third progressive jackpot is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, the award amount of the first and second progressive jackpot is “0”. In this case, the award of the third progressive jackpot is set to the upper limit. In the event the increment at this time includes an excessive amount that exceeds the upper limit, this excessive amount is included in the award amount of the first progressive jackpot. Thereafter, the increment is repeated with respect to the award amount of the first progressive jackpot until the award amount reaches the upper limit. This also applies to any subsequent jackpots.

On the other hand, if the award amount of at least the second progressive jackpot is at the upper limit when the award amount of the third progressive jackpot is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, the award amount of a special progressive jackpot is newly produced. At this time, all award amounts of the above-described three progressive jackpots are included in the award amount of the special progressive jackpot. As a result, the award amounts of these three progressive jackpots become “0”. Then, the increment is repeated with respect to the award amount of the special progressive jackpot without any restrictions imposed by the upper limit.

If a gaming machine wins a progressive jackpot when the increment is repeated with respect to the award amount of the special progressive jackpot, the award amount of the special progressive jackpot is awarded to this machine. Then, the award amount of the special progressive jackpot will disappear.

The award amounts of the progressive jackpots which are increased and awarded as described above are displayed on a liquid crystal panel 5B of the respective gaming machines, as shown in FIG. 1. The liquid crystal panel 5B is divided into a window W1 and a window W2. The window W1 displays the award amounts of the respective progressive jackpots.

The window W2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B displays an image regarding the state of a game executed in the gaming machine.

This is described in more detail in FIG. 1. When four liquid crystal panels 5B shown in FIG. 1 is specified, it is described by the No. of the stage from the uppermost stage of the figure. The window W1 of the first stage to the third stage liquid crystal panels 5B has an award amount display portion 6A, an award amount display portion 6B, and an award amount display portion 6C. The award amount display portion 6A displays the number for the award amount of the first progressive jackpot, the award amount display portion 6B displays the number for the award amount of the second progressive jackpot, and the award amount display portion 6C displays the number for the award amount of the third progressive jackpot.

In the case shown in FIG. 1, the upper limit with respect to the award amounts of these progressive jackpots is “1999”. Nevertheless, this upper limit can be changed through external input by an operator.

The window W1 of the first stage liquid crystal panel 5B will next be described. The award amount display portion 6A displays number “1999”. The award amount display portion 6B displays number “12”. The award amount display portion 6C displays number “0”. The award amount of the first progressive jackpot thus reaches the upper limit. The award amount of the second progressive jackpot becomes the object of increment.

The window W1 of the second stage liquid crystal panel 5B will next be described. The award amount display portion 6A displays number “0”. The award amount display portion 6B displays number “21”. The award amount display portion 6C displays number “0”. The award amount of the first progressive jackpot thus reaches the upper limit. The award amount of the second progressive jackpot becomes the object of increment. Accordingly, if the window W1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B shifts from the first stage to the second stage, the award amount of the first progressive jackpot is awarded during the shift. The award amount of the second progressive jackpot continues to be the object of increment. If the gaming machine that has the second stage liquid crystal panel 5B wins a progressive jackpot, a message reading “WIN Progressive!!” is temporarily displayed on the window W2 of this liquid crystal panel 5B, as shown in FIG. 1.

The window W1 of the third stage liquid crystal panel 5B will next be described. The award amount display portion 6A displays number “0”. The award amount display portion 6B displays number “1999”. The award amount display portion 6C displays number “1999”. Accordingly, if the window W1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B shifts from the second stage to the third stage, the award amounts of the second and third progressive jackpots reach the upper limit. Thereafter, the window W1 of the third stage liquid crystal panel 5B is as the window W1 of the fourth stage liquid crystal panel 5B.

The window W1 of the fourth stage liquid crystal panel 5B will next be described. Here, the window W1 of the fourth stage liquid crystal panel 5B does not include the above-described award amount display portions 6A, 6B and 6C. Instead, the window W1 of the fourth stage liquid crystal panel 5B includes an award amount display portion 6D that displays the number for the award amount of the special progressive jackpot. At this time, a message reading “Special Progressive!!” that shows that an award amount of a special progressive jackpot has newly been produced is temporarily displayed on the window W2 of the fourth stage liquid crystal panel 5B.

[2. Schematic Structure of the Gaming System]

FIG. 2 is a system block diagram showing the gaming system of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, a gaming system 301 of the present embodiment includes a network 401 of two-way communicable through which a game server 302 and a plurality of gaming machines 1 are connected.

[3. Schematic Structure of Each Gaming Machine]

Next, a schematic structure of the gaming machine 1 will be described by referring to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is an external perspective view of the gaming machine 1.

As shown in FIG. 3, the gaming machine 1 is of an upright type which is equipped with a game arcade such as casino and includes a cabinet 3 for housing electric or mechanical parts for conducting predetermined types of games. A display unit 4 for displaying information related to a game includes, for example, an upper display unit 4A, a variable display unit 4B at the middle stage of the display unit 4, and an under display unit 4C, which are installed at the front face of the cabinet 3 in a vertically long shape. The upper display unit 4A includes the liquid crystal panel 5A arranged at the upper side of the variable display unit 4B, the liquid crystal panel 5A for displaying an effecting images, an introduction of a game, or an explanation of game rules and the like. The under display unit 4C is arranged at the lower side of the variable display unit 4B and includes a plastic panel 5C on which an image is printed. The plastic panel 5C is lighted up with the backlight of the under display unit 4C.

The variable display unit 4B for displaying a state of a game includes the liquid crystal panel 5B which is fixed at a front door of the cabinet 3. The front face of the liquid crystal panel 5B includes a touch panel 101, with which a player can input various commands. The variable display unit 4B at the middle stage of the cabinet 3 is sloped so that the head of the variable display unit 4B tilts back to thereby allow the player to play a game in a comfortable position.

An operation table 10 extending forward is provided in between the variable display unit 4B at the middle stage and the under display unit 4C, on the front face of the cabinet 3. On the operation table 10, there are arranged operation buttons 11 including a BET button, a game start button, a collect button, a CASHOUT button and the like as an operation part for inputting instructions concerning a game conducted. The operation table 10 is provided with a coin insertion slot 12 and a bill insertion slot 13. A ticket printer 14 and a card reader 15 are provided in between the operation table 10 and the variable display unit 4B at the middle stage. The lowermost part of the cabinet 3 is provided with a coin tray 16.

As to the gaming machine 1, coins, bills or electronic value information (credit) corresponding to coins and bills are used as gaming media. However, in the present embodiment, types of gaming media are not restricted to the above. For example, medal, token, electronic money, ticket and the like are applicable as gaming media.

There are also arranged light emitting portions 20 on the cabinet 3 of the gaming machine 1 so as to surround a game area including the upper display unit 4A, the variable display unit 4B at the middle stage, the under display unit 4C and the operation table 10.

The gaming machine 1 is further provided with a topper effect device 28 mounted on the cabinet 3. The topper effect device 28 is of a rectangular board shape and is arranged so as to be substantially parallel with the liquid crystal panel 5A of the upper display unit 4A. The cabinet 3 is further provided with speakers 23 on its both sides.

[4. Internal Configuration of Each Gaming Machine]

Next, an internal configuration of the gaming machine 1 will be explained by referring to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the gaming machine 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the gaming machine 1 includes a plurality of components such as a main control board 71 in which a microcomputer 31 is included. The main control board 71 includes the microcomputer 31, a random number generation circuit 35, a sampling circuit 36, a clock pulse generation circuit 37 and a frequency divider 38, and further includes an illumination effect driving circuit 61, a hopper driving circuit 63, a payout completion signal circuit 65 and a printer driving circuit 67.

The microcomputer 31 includes a main CPU 32, a RAM 33 and a ROM 34. The main CPU 32 executes in accordance with programs stored in the ROM 34 and performs input and output to and from the other components via an I/O port 39 to carry out an operation control over the gaming machine 1. The RAM 33 stores data or programs to be used during an operation of the main CPU 32. For example, random numbers which are sampled by the after-mentioned sampling circuit 36 are stored temporarily after a start of a game in the RAM 33. The ROM 34 stores programs or static data.

The programs stored in the ROM 34 include game programs and a game system program (hereinafter referred to as the game program and the like). The game programs further include a lottery program to be used while a game is conducted.

The random number generation circuit 35 is operated in accordance with an instruction of the main CPU 32 and generates random number within a certain range. In accordance with an instruction of the main CPU 32, the sampling circuit 36 extracts any random number from among the random numbers generated by the random number generation circuit 35 and inputs the extracted random number to the main CPU 32. The clock pulse generation circuit 37 generates a reference clock for operating the main CPU 32. The frequency divider 38 inputs a signal obtained by frequency-dividing the reference clock by a certain cycles to the main CPU 32.

The touch panel 101 is connected to the main control board 71. The touch panel 101 is arranged on the front face of the liquid crystal panel 5B and is capable of specifying a position in a coordinate touched by a player, and detecting a portion the player touched and which direction the touched portion has moved in accordance with the specified coordination position information. A signal corresponding to this detection is to be inputted to the main CPU 32 via the I/O port 39.

Further, the operation buttons 11 including the BET button, the game start button, the collect button, the CASHOUT button and the like are connected to the main control board 71. Signals corresponding to depression of such buttons are to be inputted to the main CPU 32 via the I/O port 39.

Further, a game communication circuit 102 is connected to the main control board 71. The game communication circuit 102 is a device that converts a signal sent to be sent out by the gaming machine 1 into a signal in a sendable format, according to transmission method of a phone line or a LAN cable, so as to send it to the game server 302. Conversely, the game communication circuit 102 receives a signal sent from the game server 302 to reconvert the signal into a signal in a format readable by the gaming machine 1. The game communication circuit 102 is connected to a server communication circuit 303 via the network 401 of two-way communicable, such as the Internet. The game server 302 includes a DIP switch 304 which an operator uses to set the number that will become the upper limit.

The illumination effect driving circuit 61 outputs an effect signal for carrying out a light illumination effect with the above-described light emitting portion 20 and topper effect device 28. The topper effect device 28 is connected to the illumination effect driving circuit 61 through a serial interface, via the light emitting portion 20.

The hopper driving circuit 63 drives a hopper 64 in accordance with control by the main CPU 32. The hopper 64 conducts an operation for paying out coins and pays out the coins to the coin tray 16. The payout completion signal circuit 65 obtains the numerical value of the number of coins from a coin detection portion 66 connected thereto. When the numerical value reaches the value predetermined set, the payout completion signal circuit 65 inputs a signal for notifying completion of payout of coins into the main CPU 32. The coin detection portion 66 counts the number of coins paid out from the hopper 64 and inputs the number into the payout completion signal circuit 65. The printer driving circuit 67 drives the ticket printer 14 in accordance with control by the main CPU 32.

Further, a sub-control board 72 is connected to the main control board 71. The liquid crystal panel 5A, the liquid crystal panel 5B and the speakers 23 are connected to the sub-control board 72.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the sub-control board 72. As shown in FIG. 5, the sub-control board 72 performs display control of the liquid crystal panel 5A and the liquid crystal panel 5B and output control of sound from the speakers 23, by inputting commands from the main control board 71. The sub-control board 72 is arranged on a circuit board which is different from a circuit board constituting the main control board 71. The sub-control board 72 mainly comprises a microcomputer (hereinafter referred to as “sub-microcomputer”) 73 and includes a sound source IC 78 for controlling sound outputted from the speakers 23, a power amplifier 79 as an amplifier, and an image control circuit 81 working as display control means for the liquid crystal panels 5A and 5B.

The sub-microcomputer 73 includes a sub-CPU 74 performing control operation in accordance with a control command sent from the main control board 71, a program ROM 75 as memory means, a work RAM 76, and I/O ports 77 and 80. The sub-control board 72 is not provided with a clock pulse generation circuit, a frequency divider, a random number generation circuit and a sampling circuit. However, the sub-control board 72 is configured to perform random number sampling in the operation program of the sub-CPU 74. The program ROM 75 stores a control program executed on the sub-CPU 74. The work RAM 76 is provided as temporal memory means when executing the above control program on the sub-CPU 74.

The image control circuit 81 includes an image control CPU 82, an image control work RAM 83, an image control program ROM 84, an IN port 85, an image ROM 86, a video RAM 87, and an image control IC 88. Based on the parameter set by the sub-microcomputer 73, the image control CPU 82 determines images to be displayed on the liquid crystal panels 5A and 5B, in accordance with an image control program stored in the image control program ROM 84.

The image control program ROM 84 stores an image control program concerning display of the liquid crystal panels 5A and 5B and various selection tables. The image control work RAM 83 is provided as temporal memory means when executing the image control program on the image control CPU 82. The image control IC 88 forms images based on the determination by the image control CPU 82 to output on the liquid crystal panels 5A and 5B.

The image ROM 86 stores dot data for forming an image, for example, dot data on award amount display portions 6A, 6B, 6C and 6D (see FIG. 1). The video RAM 87 works as temporal memory means when forming an image with the image control IC 88.

The image control circuit 81 performs display control on the windows W1 and W2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B (see FIG. 1) based on a control signal from the main CPU 32.

[5. Display of the Liquid Crystal Panel]

Here will be explained an image to be displayed on the liquid crystal panel 5B. FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 are views showing one example of images to be displayed on the liquid crystal panel 5B. As shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the liquid crystal panel 5B is divided into the window W1 and the window W2.

The window W2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B displays an image representing a state of a game being conducted on the gaming machine 1. FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 show images representing the execution state of a video slot game. In FIG. 6, video reels are displayed in a stopped state. In FIG. 7, the video reels are displayed in a scrolled state.

Incidentally, an image to be displayed on the window W2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B is not restricted to an image concerning an execution state of a video slot game. That is, the window W2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B displays an image concerning the state of various games executable on the gaming machine 1. Other than slot games, games executable on the gaming machine 1 include card games, roulette games, dice games and mah-jong games, for example.

[6. Contents of the Award Amount Display Portion]

On the other hand, the window W1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B includes award amount display portions 6A, 6B and 6C that display the number for the award amount of the progressive jackpot.

The award amount display portion 6A displays the number for the award amount of the first progressive jackpot. The award amount display portion 6B displays the number for the award amount of the second progressive jackpot. The award amount display portion 6C displays the number for the award amount of the third progressive jackpot. The window W1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 displays number “1999” in the award amount display portion 6A. The award amount display portion 6B displays number “12”. The award amount display portion 6C displays number “0”. Accordingly, the award amount of the first progressive jackpot reaches the upper limit. The award amount of the second progressive jackpot becomes the object of increment. In this respect, the window W1 is the same as the window W1 of the first stage liquid crystal panel 5B shown in FIG. 1.

If a special progressive jackpot is newly produced, the award amount display portions 6A, 6B and 6C are erased from the window W1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. Thereafter, as shown in the fourth stage of the above FIG. 1, the award amount display portion 6D that displays the number for the award amount of the special progressive jackpot is provided in the window WI of the liquid crystal panel 5B.

[7. Operation of Each Gaming Machine]

Next, there will be described precisely a main control program to be executed in each gaming machine 1 by referring to the drawings. FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the main control program.

First, when a power switch is turned on (switch-on), the microcomputer 31 is activated and the microcomputer 31 executes an initial setting processing in step (hereinafter referred to as S) 1. In the initial setting processing, the main CPU 32 executes the BIOS stored in the ROM 34 and extracts compressed data included in the BIOS into the RAM 33, thereby to execute the BIOS extracted in the RAM 33 and to carry out diagnosis and initialization of the peripheral devices. Next, the main CPU 32 writes game program and the like read from the ROM 34 to the RAM 33 and obtains payout rate setting data and country identification information. It is to be noted that the main CPU 32 also executes an authentication processing on the programs during the initial setting processing.

In S2, the main CPU 32 sequentially reads out and executes the game program and the like from the RAM 33 thereby to execute a main game processing. By executing the main game processing, a game is conducted in the gaming machine 1. The main game processing is repeatedly executed while power is supplied to the gaming machine 1.

Next, there will be described a subroutine concerning the main game processing of S2 by referring to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 shows a flowchart of the main game processing to be executed in the gaming machine 1. It is to be noted that the programs indicated in the flowchart of FIG. 9 are stored in the ROM34 or RAM 33, which are included in the gaming machine 1, and executed by the main CPU 32.

As shown in FIG. 9, the main CPU 32 firstly executes a start acceptance processing in S11. In the start acceptance processing, insertion of a coin and bet operation with the BET button among the operation buttons 11 are done by a player.

Next, in S12, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not the game start button among the operation buttons 11 has been depressed. As to the game start button, a spin button corresponds to it when a video slot is conducted in the gaming machine 1, for example. This determination is carried out based on a signal to be inputted to the main CPU 32 in response to the depression of any one of the operation buttons 11. In case the game start button among the operation buttons 11 is not depressed (S12: NO), the processing returns to the start acceptance processing (S11) again. Under this state, the player can change the number of bets or the like. In case the game start button among the operation buttons 11 is depressed (S12: YES), the main CPU 32 stores the number of bets set by the above bet operation into the RAM 33 as bet information. Next, the processing proceeds to S13.

In S13, the main CPU 32 executes a game processing. At the game processing, the main CPU 32 carries out control for displaying the gaming state onto the window W2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B by transmitting control signals to the sub-control board 72. The main CPU 32 carries out control for changing the execution state of the game being displayed on the window W2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B by transmitting control signals to the sub-control board 72 based on a signal to be inputted in response to a depress of a button for operating the game among the operation buttons 11.

In this manner, the game proceeds or terminates on the window W2 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. Then, the main CPU 32 awards a payout corresponding to a game result to the player. After that, the main CPU 32 executes the main game processing shown in FIG. 9 again.

[8. Operations of the Gaming System]

The main CPU 32 executes each processing S21 through S23 shown in FIG. 10 at a point in time P1 immediately prior to execution of the game processing in the above S13. Here, the respective processing S21 through S23 will be described based on FIG. 10. The respective programs as shown in S21 through S23 in FIG. 10 are stored in the ROM 34 or the RAM 33 provided in each gaming machine 1 and executed by the main CPU 32.

In other words, when the operation button 11 which is the game start button is depressed in S12 (S12: YES), the main CPU 32 stores the number of bets set based on the above betting operation in the RAM 33, as bet information. After this, the flow proceeds to S21 shown in FIG. 10.

In S21, the main CPU 32 executes an increment information sending processing. In this increment information sending processing, the main CPU 32 sends a numerical value corresponding to a predetermined ratio of the number of bets set based on the bet operation, as increment information, to the game server 302, while referring the bet information stored in the RAM 33. Then, the flow proceeds to S22.

In S22, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not progressive information has been received from the game server 302. This determination is based on a signal and the like inputted from the game communication circuit 102 to the main CPU 32 in response to reception of the progressive information from the game server 302. Here, the main CPU 32 waits until progressive information is received from the game server 302 (S22: NO). Upon reception of progressive information from the game server 302 (S22: YES), the flow proceeds to S23.

In S23, the main CPU 32 executes a progressive display control processing. In this progressive display control processing, the main CPU 32 transmits control signals to the sub-control board 72. As a result, the main CPU 32 displays the number for the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is included in the progressive information received from the game server 302 on any one of the award amount display portions 6A, 6B, 6C and 6D provided in the window W1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B. This will be described in detail later. In an initial state, the window W1 of the liquid crystal panel 5B displays the respective award amount display portions 6A, 6B and 6C. Thereafter, the flow returns to the main game processing shown in FIG. 9.

On the other hand, the game server 302 executes each processing S101 through S106 shown in FIG. 10. Here, the respective processing S101 through S106 will be described based on FIG. 10. Each program shown in S101 through S106 in FIG. 10 is stored in the game server 302 and is executed by the game server 302.

First, in S101, the game server 302 determines whether or not increment information has been received from any one of the gaming machines 1 connected through the network 401. This determination is based on a signal and the like outputted from the server communication circuit 303 in response to reception of the increment information. Here, if increment information is not received (S101: NO), the flow proceeds to S104. On the other hand, if increment information is received (S101: YES), the flow proceeds to S102.

In S102, the game server 302 executes an increase processing. In this increase processing, a numerical value which is included in the increment information received from the gaming machine 1 is added to the award amount of the progressive jackpot. As a result, the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is managed by the game server 302 is increased by a predetermined ratio of the number of bets with respect to a game executed in each gaming machine 1. In other words, the above-described increment is carried out in this increase processing. This addition as well will be referred to as increment.

This will be further described in detail based on FIG. 11. Each program shown in S111 through S120 in FIG. 11 is stored in the game server 302 and is executed in the game server 302.

First, in S111, the game server 302 determines whether or not the object of increment is an award amount of a special progressive jackpot. Here, if the object of increment is an award amount of a special progressive jackpot (S111: YES), the flow proceeds to S113 described below. On the other hand, if the object of increment is not an award amount of a special progressive jackpot (S111: NO), the flow proceeds to S112.

In S112, the game server 302 determines whether or not the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of increment satisfies an upper limit restriction even if the award amount is incremented. If the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of increment is below the upper limit even when incremented, the upper limit restriction is satisfied (S112: YES). The flow thus proceeds to S113.

In S113, the game server 302 executes an award amount increment processing. In this award amount increment processing, a numerical value which is included in this increment information is added to the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of increment. Thereafter, the flow proceeds to S103 in FIG. 10.

On the other hand, in S112, when the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of increment is incremented and reaches or becomes higher than the upper limit, the restriction of upper limit is not satisfied (S112: NO). The flow then proceeds to S114. In S114, the game server 302 determines whether or not the object of increment is an award amount of a last progressive jackpot. More specifically, here, the award amount of the third progressive jackpot is the award amount of the last progressive jackpot.

Here, if the object of increment is not the award amount of the last progressive jackpot (S114: NO), the flow proceeds to S118 described below. On the other hand, if the object of increment is the award amount of the last progressive jackpot (S114: YES), the flow proceeds to S115.

In S115, the game server 302 determines whether or not the award amounts of the progressive jackpots include an award amount that reaches the upper limit. In this determination, the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of increment is eliminated. Here, if the award amounts of the progressive jackpots do not include an award amount that reaches the upper limit (S115: NO), the flow proceeds to S118 described below. On the other hand, if the award amounts of the progressive jackpots include an award amount which reaches the upper limit (S115: YES), the flow proceeds to S116.

In S116, the game server 302 executes a special progressive jackpot setting processing. In this setting processing, an award amount of a special progressive jackpot is newly set. Thereafter, the flow proceeds to S117.

In S117, the game server 302 executes an award amount inclusion processing. In the award amount inclusion processing, the award amounts of all the progressive jackpots are included in the award amount of the special progressive jackpot. Further, the increment is carried out with respect to the award amount of the special progressive jackpot. As a result, the award amounts of the respective progressive jackpots disappear, unlike the award amount of the special progressive jackpot. More specifically, a value obtained by summing up the award amounts of the respective first through third progressive jackpots is included in the award amount of the special progressive jackpot. As a result, the award amount of each of the first through third progressive jackpots becomes “0”. Thereafter, the flow proceeds to S103 shown in FIG. 10.

On the other hand, even if the object of increment is not the award amount of the last progressive jackpot (S114: NO), the flow proceeds to S118. Or even if the object of increment is the award amount of the last progressive jackpot (S114: YES), if the award amounts of the progressive jackpots do not include an award amount which has reached the upper limit, except for the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of increment (S115: NO), the flow proceeds to S118.

In S118, the game server 302 executes an upper limit increment processing. In this upper limit increment processing, the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of increment is set to the upper limit. Thereafter, the flow proceeds to S119.

In S119, the game server 302 executes an excessive award amount inclusion processing. In the excessive award amount inclusion processing, only in the event that the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of increment exceeds the upper limit due to being incremented, this excessive amount is included in the award amount of the progressive jackpot with the following sequence number which is the object of increment. More specifically, for instance, if the award amount of the first progressive jackpot is incremented to exceed the upper limit by 2 dollars, the 2 dollars are included in the award amount of the second progressive jackpot. Thereafter, the flow proceeds to S120.

In S120, the game server 302 executes an increment object change processing. In the increment object change processing, the object of increment is changed to the award amount of the progressive jackpot with the following sequence number. In other words, for instance, if the award amount of the first progressive jackpot is the object of the current increment, the award amount of the second progressive jackpot is set as the object of increment. Thereafter, the flow proceeds to S103 as shown in FIG. 10.

Returning to FIG. 10, in S103, the game server 302 executes a jackpot processing. In this jackpot processing, the game server 302 carries out a probability game with respect to the gaming machine 1 which sent the increment information and became the object of the determination carried out in S101. The probability game determines, with a predetermined probability, whether or not a progressive jackpot has been won. Thereafter, the flow proceeds to S104.

In S104, the game server 302 executes a progressive information sending processing. In this progressive information sending processing, the game server 302 sends progressive information to each gaming machine 1 connected thereto through the network 401. This progressing information includes the numbers for the award amounts of the progressive jackpot. If a determination is made in S103 that a progressive jackpot is won, the game server 302 adds data to the progressive information. By the data, the winning of a progressive jackpot is notified. The progressive information is to be returned to the gaming machine 1 which sent the increment information and became the object of the determination carried out in S101.

This will be described in detail based on FIG. 12. Each program shown in S131 trough S140 in FIG. 12 is stored in the game server 302 and is executed by the game server 302.

First, in S131, the game server 302 determines whether or not a progressive jackpot has been won. This determination is based on the processing results in S103. Here, if a progressive jackpot is not won (S131: NO), the flow proceeds to S138 described below. On the other hand, if a progressive jackpot is won (S131: YES), the flow proceeds to S132.

In S132, the game server 302 determines whether or not the object of increment is the award amount of the special progressive jackpot. Here, if the object of increment is the award amount of the special progressive jackpot (S132: YES), the flow proceeds to S137.

In S137, the game server 302 treats the award amount of the special progressive jackpot as a winning amount. Then, the flow proceeds to S136 described below.

On the other hand, if the object of increment is not the award amount of the special progressive jackpot in S132 (S132: NO), the flow proceeds to S133.

In S133, the game server 302 treats the N-th progressive jackpot award amount as a winning amount. Here, this N is a variable and its initial value is “1”. Then, the flow proceeds to S134. If the award amount of the Nth progressive jackpot is the object of increment in the increase processing in S102, the game server 302 ignores each processing in S134, S135 and S136 described below.

In S134, the game server 302 adds “1” to the variable N. Then, the flow proceeds to S135. In S135, the game server 302 determines whether or not the variable N is equivalent to “4”. Here, if the variable N is not equivalent to “4” (S135: NO), the flow proceeds to S138 described below. On the other hand, if the variable N is equivalent to “4” (S135: YES), the flow proceeds to S136. In S136, the game server 302 assigns value “1” to the variable N. Then, the flow proceeds to S138.

In S138, the game server 302 obtains the award amounts of the respective progressive jackpots. In other words, if a new award amount of a special progressive jackpot is not set, the award amounts of the first through third progressive jackpots are respectively obtained. Contrary to this, if a new award amount of a special progressive jackpot is set, only the award amount of the special progressive jackpot is obtained. Thereafter, the flow proceeds to S139.

In S139, the game server 302 executes an information making processing. In the information making processing, the above-described progressive information is generated. At this time, the game server 302 includes the number of the award amount of the progressive jackpot obtained in S138 and the information that can identify the progressive jackpot to the progressive information. If a progressive jackpot is won in S103, the game server 302 includes data notifying that a progressive jackpot is won and information and the like that the number for the winning amounts and the won progressive jackpots in S133 or S137 can be identified, to the progressive information. This progressive information is returned to the gaming machine 1 that sent increment information and became the object of the determination carried out in S101. Then, the flow proceeds to S140.

In S140, the game server 302 executes an information sending processing. In this information sending processing, the game server 302 sends progressive information generated in the above S139 to each gaming machine 1 connected thereto through network 401. Then, the flow proceeds to S105 shown in FIG. 10.

Returning to FIG. 10, in S105, the game server 302 determines whether or not a progressive jackpot has been won. This determination is based on the processing results in the above S103. Here, if a progressive jackpot is not won (S105: NO), the control program is executed again starting from S101 as shown in FIG. 10. On the other hand, if a progressive jackpot is won (S105: YES), the flow proceeds to S106.

In S106, the game server 302 executes an award amount reset processing. In this award amount reset processing, the game server 302 resets the number for the award amount of the progressive jackpot which was treated as a winning amount in S133 and S137 to “0”. Further, if the award amount of the special progressive jackpot is treated as a winning amount in S137, the award amount of the special progressive jackpot disappears. Then, the game server 302 re-executes the control program shown in FIG. 10 starting from S101.

Next, the progressive display control processing in S23 will be described as shown in FIG. 10. This progressive display control processing is executed by the main CPU 32 in each gaming machine 1. FIG. 13 is a flow chart of the progressive display control processing program in each gaming machine 1. Each program shown in S31 through S35 in FIG. 13 is stored in the ROM 34 or RAM 33 provided in each gaming machine 1 and is executed by the main CPU 32.

Upon executing the progressive display processing shown in S23 in FIG. 10, the main CPU 32 first determines whether or not a new special progressive jackpot is set in S31 in FIG. 13. This determination is based on the progressive information received from the game server 302. If the number for the award amount of the special progressive jackpot is not included in the progressive information, a new special progressive jackpot is not set (S31: NO) and the flow proceeds to S33 described below. On the other hand, if the number for the award amount of the special progressive jackpot is included in the progressive information, a new special progressive jackpot is set (S31: YES) and the flow proceeds to S32.

In S32, the main CPU 32 executes a first award amount display portion processing. In this first award amount display portion processing, the main CPU 32 transmits control signals to the sub-control board 72 to display the award amount display portion 6D in the window WI and temporarily display a message reading “Special Progressive!!” on the window W2, in the same manner as in the liquid crystal panel 5B shown in the fourth stage in FIG. 1. Then, the flow proceeds to S33.

In S33, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not a special progressive jackpot has been won. This determination as well is based on the progressive information received from the game server 302. Here, if a special progressive jackpot is not won (S33: NO), the flow proceeds to S35 described below. On the other hand, if a special progressive jackpot is won (S33: YES), the flow proceeds to S34.

In S34, the main CPU 32 executes a second award amount display portion processing. In this second award amount display portion processing, the main CPU 32 transmits control signals to the sub-control board 72 and displays each award amount display portion 6A, 6B and 6C on the window WI in a manner similar with the liquid crystal panel 5B as shown in the first to third stage in FIG. 1. This display state constitutes an initial setting. Thereafter, the flow proceeds to S35.

In S35, the main CPU 32 executes a progressive display processing. In this progressive display processing, the main CPU 32 executes control signals to the sub-control board 72 to display the number for the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is included in the progressive information received from the game server 302.

For instance, if the number for the award amount of the special progressive jackpot is included in the progressive information, this number is displayed on the award amount display portion 6D of the window W1 in the liquid crystal panel 5B. On the other hand, the numbers for the award amounts of the first through third progressive jackpots are respectively included in the progressive information as follows. Specifically, the number for the award amount of the first progressive jackpot is displayed on the award amount display portion 6A of the window W1 in the liquid crystal panel 5B. The number for the award amount of the second progressive jackpot is displayed on the award amount display portion 6B of the window W1 in the liquid crystal panel 5B. Further, the number for the award amount of the third progressive jackpot is displayed on the award amount display portion 6C of the window W1 in the liquid crystal panel 5B.

Further, in each gaming machine 1, the main CPU 32 executes processing S41 and S42 shown in FIG. 14 at a point in time P2 following execution of the game processing in S13. Here, each processing S41 and S42 will be described based on FIG. 14. The programs shown in S41 and S42 in FIG. 14 are stored in the ROM 34 or RAM 33 provided in each gaming machine 1 and is executed by the main CPU 32.

Specifically, after the main CPU 32 has executed the game processing in S13, the flow proceeds to S41 shown in FIG. 14.

In S41, the main CPU 32 determines whether or not a progressive jackpot has been won. This determination is based on the progressive information received from the game server 302. Here, if the progressive jackpot is not won (S41: NO), the flow returns to the main game processing shown in FIG. 9. On the other hand, if the progressive jackpot is won, (S41: YES), the flow proceeds to S42.

In S42, the main CPU 32 executes a payout processing. In this payout processing, the main CPU 32 awards to the player an award amount, from amongst the award amounts of the progressive jackpots which are included in the progressive information received from the game server 302, which is treated as a winning amount. Further, the main CPU 32 transmits control signals to the sub-control board 72 to temporarily display a message reading “WIN Progressive!!” on the window W2 in the liquid crystal panel 5B. Then, the main CPU 32 returns to the main game processing as shown in FIG. 9.

On the other hand, the game server 302 executes the processing in S151 and S152 shown in FIG. 15 at a point in time Q1 immediately prior to execution of the determination processing in S101 as shown in FIG. 10. The program shown in S151 and S152 in FIG. 15 are stored in the game server 302 and is executed by the game server 302.

First, the game server 302 determines in S151 whether or not a setting is established. This setting means setting of a number by means of the DIP switch 304. Accordingly, if a number is not set by means of the DIP switch 304 (S151: NO), the flow proceeds to the determination processing in S101 as shown in FIG. 10. On the other hand, if an amount is set by means of the DIP switch 304 (S151: YES), the flow proceeds to S152.

In S152, the game server 302 executes an upper limit setting processing. In this upper limit setting processing, the game server 302 employs the number set by the DIP switch 304 as the upper limit. Then, the flow proceeds to the judgment processing in S101 as shown in FIG. 10.

[9. Other]

The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the disclosure.

For instance, the gaming system 301 of the present embodiment may also have progressive jackpots after the fourth progressive jackpots.

The gaming system 301 of the present embodiment may be divided in a plurality of groups, each constituted of a predetermined number of gaming machines 1. In this case, the game server 302 manages a progressive jackpot in each one of the respective groups.

The gaming system 301 of the present embodiment can handle a so-called “linked progressive” built inside one game arcade. In addition, this gaming system 301 can also handle the so-called “wide area progressive” built among a plurality of game arcades.

The game server 302 may also be used for any one of the gaming machines 1 connected to the network 401.

The control technique in which the award amount of each progressive jackpot is incremented and then awarded can also handle a progressive jackpot (the so-called “stand alone”) which is independently managed in each of the gaming machines 1.

The award amount of each progressive jackpot may be displayed in a graph shape. 

1. A gaming machine comprising: a plurality of progressive jackpots, each having an award amount restricted to an upper limit and being assigned a sequence number; an operating unit for carrying out a bet operation with respect to a game; and a processor programmed to carry out operations of: (a) when an increment is repeated in accordance with a number of bets that are made through the operating unit until any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots reaches the upper limit, and the award amount of a progressive jackpot which is object of the increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, (a-1) setting the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is object of the increment to the upper limit; (a-2) in the event of an excessive amount that exceeds the upper limit, including the excessive amount in an award amount of a progressive jackpot with a following sequence number; (a-3) subjecting the award amount of the progressive jackpot with the following sequence number to a subsequent increment; further (b) if a player has won a progressive jackpot, (b-1) selecting any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots in accordance with the sequence number; and (b-2) awarding the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of selection to the player.
 2. The gaming machine according to claim 1, further comprising a setting device for setting a desired amount, wherein, in carrying out the operations at (a), if the desired amount is set in the setting device, the processor handles the desired amount as the upper limit.
 3. The gaming machine according to claim 1, wherein the processor is programmed to carry out operations of: (a′) when an increment is repeated in accordance with a number of bets that are made through the operating unit until an award amount of a last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment reaches the upper limit, and the award amount of the last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, on the condition that at least one award amount of a progressive jackpot is reserved, excluding the award amount of the last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment, (a′-1) setting an award amount of a special progressive jackpot to which the upper limit restriction does not apply; (a′-2) handling all award amounts of the progressive jackpots as the award amount of the special progressive jackpot; (a′-3) subjecting the award amount of the special progressive jackpot to a subsequent increment; further (b′) in carrying out the operations at (a′), if a player has won a progressive jackpot, (b′-1) awarding the award amount of the special progressive jackpot to the player.
 4. A gaming machine comprising: a plurality of progressive jackpots, each having an award amount restricted to an upper limit and being assigned a sequence number; an operating unit for carrying out a bet operation with respect to a game; a setting device for setting a desired amount; and a processor programmed to carry out operations of: (a) when an increment is repeated in accordance with a number of bets that are made through the operating unit until any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots reaches the upper limit, and the award amount of a progressive jackpot which is object of the increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, (a-1) setting the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is object of the increment to the upper limit; (a-2) in the event of an excessive amount that exceeds the upper limit, including the excessive amount in an award amount of a progressive jackpot with a following sequence number; (a-3) subjecting the award amount of the progressive jackpot with the following sequence number to a subsequent increment; further (b) if a player has won a progressive jackpot, (b-1) selecting any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots in accordance with the sequence number; (b-2) awarding the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of selection to the player; further (a′) when an increment is repeated in accordance with a number of bets that are made through the operating unit until an award amount of a last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment reaches the upper limit, and the award amount of the last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, on the condition that at least one award amount of a progressive jackpot is reserved, excluding the award amount of the last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment, (a′-1) setting an award amount of a special progressive jackpot to which the upper limit restriction does not apply; (a′-2) handling all award amounts of the progressive jackpots as the award amount of the special progressive jackpot; (a′-3) subjecting the award amount of the special progressive jackpot to a subsequent increment; further (b′) in carrying out the operations at (a′), if a player has won a progressive jackpot, (b′-1) awarding the award amount of the special progressive jackpot to the player; and (c) in carrying out the operations at (a) or (a′), if the desired amount is set in the setting device, handling the desired amount as the upper limit.
 5. A gaming system comprising: a plurality of gaming machines, each having an operating unit for carrying out a bet operation with respect to a game; and a server that shares a plurality of progressive jackpots among the plurality of gaming machines, the plurality of progressive jackpots each having an award amount restricted to an upper limit and being assigned a sequence number, wherein the server is programmed to carry out the operations of: (a) when an increment is repeated in accordance with a number of bets that are made through the operating unit provided in each of the plurality of gaming machines until any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots reaches the upper limit, and the award amount of a progressive jackpot which is object of the increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, (a-1) setting the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of the increment to the upper limit; (a-2) in the event of an excessive amount that exceeds the upper limit, including the excessive amount in an award amount of a progressive jackpot with a following sequence number; (a-3) subjecting the award amount of the progressive jackpot with the following sequence number to a subsequent increment; further (b) if any one of the plurality of gaming machines has won a progressive jackpot, (b-1) selecting any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots in accordance with the sequence number; and (b-2) awarding the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of selection to the gaming machine that won.
 6. The gaming system according to claim 5, wherein the server comprises a setting device for setting a desired amount, and wherein, in carrying out the operations at (a), if the desired amount is set in the setting device, the server handles the desired amount as the upper limit.
 7. The gaming system according to claim 5, wherein the server is programmed to carry out operations of (a′) when an increment is repeated in accordance with a number of bets that are made through the operating unit provided in each one of the plurality of gaming machines until an award amount of a last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment reaches the upper limit, and the award amount of the last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, on the condition that at least one award amount of a progressive jackpot is reserved, excluding the award amount of the last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment, (a′-1) setting an award amount of a special progressive jackpot to which the upper limit restriction does not apply; (a′-2) handling all award amounts of the progressive jackpots as the award amount of the special progressive jackpot; (a′-3) subjecting the award amount of the special progressive jackpot to a subsequent increment; further (b′) in carrying out the operations at (a′), if any one of the plurality of gaming machines has won a progressive jackpot, (b′-1) awarding the award amount of the special progressive jackpot to the gaming machine that won.
 8. A gaming system comprising: a plurality of gaming machines, each having an operating unit for carrying out a bet operation with respect to a game; and a server that shares a plurality of progressive jackpots among the plurality of gaming machines, the plurality of progressive jackpots each having an award amount restricted to an upper limit and being assigned a sequence number, wherein the server comprises a setting device for setting a desired amount, and wherein the server is programmed to carry out the operations of: (a) when an increment is repeated in accordance with a number of bets that are made through the operating unit provided in each of the plurality of gaming machines until any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots reaches the upper limit, and the award amount of a progressive jackpot which is object of the increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, (a-1) setting the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of the increment to the upper limit; (a-2) in the event of an excessive amount that exceeds the upper limit, including the excessive amount in an award amount of a progressive jackpot with a following sequence number; (a-3) subjecting the award amount of the progressive jackpot with the following sequence number to a subsequent increment; further (b) if any one of the plurality of gaming machines has won a progressive jackpot, (b-1) selecting any one of award amounts of the plurality of progressive jackpots in accordance with the sequence number; (b-2) awarding the award amount of the progressive jackpot which is the object of selection to the gaming machine that won; further (a′) when an increment is repeated in accordance with a number of bets that are made through the operating unit provided in each one of the plurality of gaming machines until an award amount of a last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment reaches the upper limit, and the award amount of the last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment is about to reach or become higher than the upper limit, on the condition that at least one award amount of a progressive jackpot is reserved, excluding the award amount of the last progressive jackpot which is the object of increment, (a′-1) setting an award amount of a special progressive jackpot to which the upper limit restriction does not apply; (a′-2) handling all award amounts of the progressive jackpots as the award amount of the special progressive jackpot; (a′-3) subjecting the award amount of the special progressive jackpot to a subsequent increment; further (b′) in carrying out the operations at (a′), if any one of the plurality of gaming machines has won a progressive jackpot, (b′-1) awarding the award amount of the special progressive jackpot to the gaming machine that won; and (c) in carrying out the operations at (a) or (a′), if the desired amount is set in the setting device, handling the desired amount as the upper limit. 